Future Role for NFOs

[Eusebeo]

I read an interesting article that describes a current project examining the feasibility of using a 2-seat aircraft as a mothership for controlling UAVs. The backseater would be the aircraft commander of the UAV. Sounds kind of cool. You can read the article at: http://www.techcentralstation.com/090503C.html

 

[Jold]

Tip of the iceberg.

For so many reasons, technical, cost and etc, UAV's, RCAVS, UCAVS or what ever you want to call them, operating from birdfarms (a.k.a. aircraft carriers) should be front and center in any force composition, planning and execution.

The old school, "boots on the ground" mentality folks will fight it, indeed the fight has begun. For example, the Air Force is in the process of getting a huge HUGE huge

tanker fleet. Why? Well without overseas bases from which to fly they need a tanker logistic line 12,000 long, refueling strike aircraft 10 - 12 times. Of course if we are going to war with Mexico or Canada or Bermuda, the AirForce is in good shape. But any long distance battles will require that huge tanker fleet and they need to get that first, then base their argument on manned aircraft on the fact they already have a tanker fleet ready to go.

That even when we have an aircraft carrier only 500 miles away from the target, ready willing and able to do the task. But they (AF) gotta have their part of the battle, sort of like children , my turn, my turn. Really.

The Navy is in position to make this happen and aside from the B52 fleet, we will not need an AirForce, except of course to have someone to run the golf courses.

It could happen in 20 years, but given the political clout of the "status quo" mentality of the old farts, it is going to be hard to do.
But the technology will shortly be there. MIT is doing some astounding things with the vehicles.

Oh, back to the article, the correct approach is network concentric battlefield that is satellite based, not in some ancient B737.

The Army is also worried. Aside from the 82 and 101 AB's who needs an Army that will take 6 months to set up shop. We have the Marine Corps in battle groups, on station, ready and more than capable of doing the job.

That is why we keep hearing "boot on the ground".